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Problem gamblers will continue playing whether winning or losing. They will use their own and other people`s money in order to keep playing. As gambling takes over their life, many other things can suffer: family life, their job and other interests.
The following questions have been devised for gamblers to ask themselves:
• Have you put at risk important or significant relationships, educational studies, a job or your career because of gambling?
• Do you chase losses by continuing or quickly returning to gamble when on a losing streak?
• When you win do you have a strong desire to return and win more?
• Do you ever gamble until you have completely run out of money?
• Have you ever lied, stolen or borrowed to get money for gambling?
• Are you reluctant to spend gambling money on anything else?
• Do you ever gamble for longer than you have planned?
• Do you ever gamble to escape worry, trouble, disappointment or frustration?
• Do you feel depressed or suicidal because of your gambling?
• Are you in debt because of your gambling?
• Have you ever sold your own or your family`s possessions to get money to gamble or to pay gambling debts?
The more you answer “yes” the greater likelihood of a gambling problem. Speak to someone about this…
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Staying in control
Whenever you gamble it is wise to remember that:
• You are buying entertainment, not investing your money;
• You should only spend money you can afford to lose;
• In advance of playing you should set strict limits on how much you will spend;
• Problems will arise if playing becomes the most important part of your life;
• Playing should take up only a relatively small amount of your time and interest;
• Playing within your means is likely to be fun and exciting;
• Spending outside your means is likely to create problems for you and others;
• You shouldn`t play to escape from worries and pressures.
If you feel like you have a gambling problem – first of all be honest with yourself and then with others. Talk about it with someone you can trust: your family or a friend. Talk to your casino manager, they do understand. Their experience in the industry gives them an awareness of the issues involved. In some cases professional help may be needed.
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